The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, nestled in the heart of Colorado Springs, Colorado, boasts a rich and fascinating history that spans nearly a century. Founded in 1926 by Spencer Penrose, a local businessman, the zoo has evolved from a private menagerie to a renowned institution dedicated to conservation, education, and the well-being of its diverse animal inhabitants.

The Beginnings of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

In 1916, Spencer Penrose received a bear as a gift, sparking his interest in collecting and caring for a variety of unusual creatures. This initial encounter led to the establishment of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, which was originally created to provide a more suitable environment for Penrose’s growing menagerie. The zoo’s collection soon expanded to include an elephant from an Indian Rajah and numerous other furred and feathered beings.

Deeding the Zoo to the City

In 1938, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo was deeded to the city of Colorado Springs as a non-profit public trust. This transition ensured that the zoo would continue to serve its purpose of providing recreation, education, conservation, and scientific facilities in the field of zoology and related subjects.

The Highest Zoo in the United States

Situated at an elevation of 6,714 feet (2,046 m) above sea level, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo holds the distinction of being the highest zoo in the United States. Spanning 140 acres, with 40 acres in active use, the zoo’s unique location on Cheyenne Mountain offers visitors breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and a one-of-a-kind experience.

Diverse Animal Collection and Conservation Efforts

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to over 750 animals, representing nearly 170 different species, with more than 30 endangered species. The zoo is particularly renowned for its large and prolific giraffe herd, with over 200 giraffes born at the zoo since 1954. Additionally, the zoo actively participates in over 30 Species Survival Plan programs, breeding endangered animals such as black-footed ferrets, Wyoming toads, mountain tapirs, and Mexican gray wolves.

Accreditation and Recognition

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and has been recognized as one of the top zoos in North America. In 2018, the zoo was ranked the #4 best zoo in North America by USA Today, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for zoo enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Quarters for Conservation and Field Conservation Programs

In addition to its impressive animal exhibits, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is committed to conservation efforts both on-site and in the field. Through its Quarters for Conservation program, the zoo has raised over $2 million since 2008 to support multiple field conservation programs.

Unique Attractions and Experiences

Visitors to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo can enjoy a variety of unique attractions and experiences, including a c. 1925 Allan Herschell Company carousel, which has been active at the zoo since 1937, and the Mountaineer Sky Ride, an open-air, ski lift-style ride that offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountain goat, grizzly bear, and Amur tiger exhibits.

Weathering the Storm: The 2018 Hail Event

On August 6, 2018, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo faced a significant challenge when severe weather, including baseball-sized hail, struck the area. The zoo’s staff was praised for their swift and effective response, using the incident command system to quickly move animals and visitors indoors. While some animals and employees were injured, the zoo’s preparedness and the dedication of its team helped to minimize the impact of the storm.

Conclusion

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s rich history, diverse animal collection, conservation efforts, and unique attractions make it a must-visit destination for zoo enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From its humble beginnings as a private menagerie to its current status as a renowned institution, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo continues to captivate and inspire visitors with its commitment to education, conservation, and the well-being of its animal residents.

References:
– Beginnings of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo History
– Cheyenne Mountain Zoo on Wikipedia